The Cleveland Browns are not expected to be a top-tier contender in the AFC. Despite having some very talented pieces on the roster, there are still quite a few missing parts when it comes to contention.
With training camp underway, fans are getting the first looks at their respective teams. As for the Browns, they have suffered a surprising loss.
To begin training camp, one of their defensive players shockingly decided to retire.
As shared by Camryn Justice of News 5 Cleveland, linebacker Jordan Hicks has announced his retirement from the NFL.
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He sent out a statement about his decision.
“After 23 years of playing football, I’m officially retiring from the NFL,” he said. “Football has given me more than I could have ever imagined. Purpose, discipline, brotherhood, and a platform to impact others. But most important it showed me who I am outside the game. I leave this chapter with deep gratitude for every lesson, challenge, and victory. I’m proud of what I accomplished on the field, but even more proud of the man I’ve become because of it.”
Hicks continued on with his message, thanking his teammates, the fans, and his family for helping him throughout his career.
“To my teammates, coaches, fans, and most importantly my family.. thank you for your unwavering support throughout this journey. I’m looking forward to this next season of life and all that it brings. I walk away with peace knowing I gave football all I had, and that the best is yet to come.”
Hicks was a key part of the Cleveland defense last season. He played in 12 games, racking up 78 tackles, two sacks, and four defended passes. This season, he was expected to compete for the right to start.
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At 33 years old, Hicks will finish his NFL career having played in 134 games. Throughout those 134 appearances, he racked up 951 total tackles, 16.5 sacks, six forced fumbles, 11 fumble recoveries, 13 interceptions, a defensive touchdown, and 53 defended passes.
Losing Hicks so late into the offseason is a tough blow for the Browns. His ability on the field and his veteran leadership would have been very valuable for the team during the 2025 season.
Despite that fact, he put together a career he should be proud of and will receive a lot of well-wishes on his way out of the NFL.
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